Summer Research Symposium 2024
Undergraduate research is a signature experience at Xavier that allows students to work one-on-one with faculty mentors on cutting-edge research projects. Whereas a student learns history or biology in their coursework, undergraduate research shows them what it means to be a historian or biologist. The Summer Research Symposium celebrates the work of summer research students and mentors through oral presentations.
Summer Research Symposium
Thursday, August 1st @ 10 AM
Alter Hall - 2nd floor
Click here to submit an abstract for the 2024 Summer Sympsioum.
2023 SCHEDULE
Special Thanks
Special thanks to Mike Cleary for help with organizing this event.
Funding Sources
Providing Xavier students with paid research experience requires considerable resources that come almost entirely from the generousity of donors. The Undergraduate Research program gratefully acknowledges those that make these experiences possible.
- The Robert C. Borcer Endowment
- The Joan G. McDonald Award
- Undergraduate Research's March Gladness campaign
- The College of Arts and Science Gift Fund
- The Boehner Project Gifts
- The John Hauk Foundation
- The Zinser Summer Research Scholarship
- The Jeffrey N. Johnston Research Fund
- Eigel Center for Community-Engaged Learning
- The College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Office
GENERAL SCHEDULE
10:00 AM - Opening remarks - Alter 203/204
Talks begin at 10:05 AM and will run until 12:05 PM
12:05 PM - Lunch - Alter 203/204
ORAL TALKS (R) indicates that at least one presenter will be speaking on Zoom. The audience will be in Alter.
Alter 205
|
Time |
Presenter |
|
10:05 |
Jill Calzini, Alaina Francel (R) The Impact of Virtual Exchange on the Development of Global Citizenship |
|
10:20 |
Emma Weiss, Erin Linko, Isabella Handorf, Jesse Candelario Rico, Paige Loboschefski, Addyson Thomas (R) Dam Dredging Impacts on Aquatic Ecosystem Health in Sharon Lake and Creek, Ohio |
|
10:35 |
Zachary Hilvano, Hunter Cann |
|
10:50 |
Imani Joshi A Progressive Model of Emphysema with Porcine Pancreatic Elastase |
|
11:05 |
Aidan Wilson |
|
11:20 |
Andrew Templeton, Biran Huber, Maggie Fitzpatric Chemical Synthesis of Natural Products from Hippobroma longiflora |
|
11:35 |
Chloe Kretschmar Synodality: Vatican II's Gift to a Church in the Modern World |
|
11:50 |
Chantz Dalton |
Alter 206
|
Time |
Presenter |
|
10:05 |
Cora Bidwell Teaching in the Age of AI Tools: Considerations for Xavier University's Writing Program |
|
10:20 |
Nathaniel King, Connor Slattery, Shayne Skrtic, Emma Simone, Rebecca Lane |
|
10:35 |
Blake Bottesi (R) |
|
10:50 |
Shea Adesso, Will Scheske |
|
11:05 |
Kylie Lawson, Evelyn Kuhns, Zach Hilvano |
|
11:20 |
Erin Linko, Emma Weiss, Jesse Candelario Rico, Isabella Handorf |
|
11:35 |
Peter Melahn (R) |
|
11:50 |
Sonia Vargas, Mac Peloquin |
Alter 207
|
Time |
Presenter |
|
10:05 |
Rebecca Lane |
|
10:20 |
Liv O'Reilly |
|
10:35 |
Emma Welsh, Felicity Kelsch |
|
10:50 |
Elexis Carrow Using a Quantum Computing Algorithm to Solve a Sudoku Puzzle |
|
11:05 |
Maggie Shears, Malani Patel, Cailie Sitawi, Dahlia Seibert, Sarah Ranke Optimizing Traps to Increase Catch Efficacy in Invasive Forest Pests |
|
11:20 |
Ashleigh Donohoe (R) Skull and Jaw Morphology, Bite Force, and Diet in the Raccoon Family, Procyonidae |
|
11:35 |
Soup Dempsey Transient Theology: Forming a Constructive Theology for Trans+ Christians |
Alter 208
|
Time |
Presenter |
|
10:05 |
Olivia Parker, Max Rothkopf, Daniel Drach, Jordyn Woods (R) Comparing Sialic Acid Levels in Mouse Models of GNE Myopathy with Gene Therapies |
|
10:20 |
Christopher McMahan Data Analysis of Graduation and Retention Rates at Xavier University |
|
10:35 |
Drew Cavallo |
|
10:50 |
Shayne Skrtic |
|
11:05 |
Nijah Simmons, Kylie Lawson, Evelyn Kuhns, Mia Rose |
|
11:20 |
Justin Malone (R) |
|
11:35 |
Nathan Beard, Beth Howard, Spencer de Tenley |
|
11:50 |
Patrick Kayes (R) The History, Evolution, and Revival of the Irish Language: How Film has Revitalized a Language |
Alter 211
|
Time |
Presenter |
|
10:05 |
Lizzy Roeding Cincinnati City Council: It's History, Limitations and Future |
|
10:20 |
Emma Simone |
|
10:35 |
Waleed Majid (R) Bridge to the Superman: Self Actualization Amid Social Pathology |
|
10:50 |
Alyssa Johnson |
|
11:05 |
Ben Michels, Honora Ryan, Alex Breeze |
|
11:20 |
Nathaniel King, Connor Slattery A Reversed-Phase HPLC Method for Determination of Creatinine in C. elegans Supernatant |
|
11:35 |
Katie Sanchez (R) Mexican Printmaking and International Antifascism: El Taller de Gráfica Popular |
|
11:50 |
Ian Cheyne |
ABSTRACTS:
Aidan Wilson (Dr. Daniel Otero)
11:05 - 11:20 in Alter 205
Jakob Bernoulli’s Treatise on Infinite Series
Throughout Jakob Bernoulli’s treatise he relies on two methods for summing infinite series. The purpose of this discussion is to provide a brief explanation of why these tools work and how they can be applied. A synopsis of the topics is as follows: one method Bernoulli relies on is proposed in proposition XIII and is used throughout the treatise. The second method he uses is proposed in proposition XIV and is a critical tool used to simplify other infinite series. In proposition XIII Bernoulli provides the following formula ( to find the sum of any given geometric progression. Bernoulli relies on this formula throughout his work as he applies Proposition XIV to an infinite series and then totals the sum by Proposition VIII. To apply Proposition XIV Bernoulli separates the given series into smaller series and aligns them in a way such that each row is a geometric progression, and the numerators of the columns add to the needed numerator in the above series. Once the series is separated into ample smaller series proposition VIII can be applied. (Home)
Alyssa Johnson (Dr. Ann Ray)
10:50 - 11:05 in Alter 211
Specialist Bee Surveys
Specialist bees are pollinators and a part of a functioning ecosystem. There is at least one federally endangered species of specialist bee in Ohio; however, there may be others that are potentially endangered. Therefore, without further knowledge about specialist bee species in Ohio, we are not able to determine what species require further protection. Although pan-trap surveys were completed throughout Ohio in 2020, this collection method did not provide enough information about specialist populations. Therefore, my research focused on collection via aerial net to improve our understanding of what flowers specialists bees are likely to visit.
I surveyed patches of native flowering plants in nature reserves and parks in the greater Cincinnati area. Specialist bees were collected using an aerial net and stored in vials to be identified. Bees will be identified by a taxonomist leading this state wide project at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. This research project's overarching goal is participating in the Ohio bee survey to determine more host plant preferences of specialist bees. (Home)
Andrew Templeton, Biran Huber, Maggie Fitzpatric (Dr. Richard Mullins)
11:20 - 11:35 in Alter 205
Chemical Synthesis of Natural Products from Hippobroma longiflora
Research in the Mullin's group is focused on the synthesis of structurally interesting small molecules with potential medicinal properties. This summer we have examined the preliminary stages of the synthesis of the following molecules: Hippobrene A, Valproic acid and a biased dopamine agonist. Hippobrene A is a natural product isolated from the perennial herb Hippobroma longiflora that prevents angiogenesis in cancer cells. Valproic acid is a known treatment for epilepsy whose synthesis could be amenable to the sophomore organic chemistry lab. The synthesis of a biased dopamine agonist is part of a developing collaboration with the Wetzel group in the department of Biology. Our progress toward the synthesis of these molecules as well as the lessons learned by a group of rookie organic chemists will be presented. (Home)
Ashleigh Donohoe (Dr. William Anyonge)
11:20 - 11:35 in Alter 207
Skull and Jaw Morphology, Bite Force, and Diet in the Raccoon Family, Procyonidae
This study investigated skull and jaw morphology as it relates to diet among six species Bassaricyon (Olingo), Bassariscus (Ringtail), Nasua (Coati), Nasuella (Mountain Coati), Potos (Kinkajou), and Procyon (Raccoon) of the raccoon family, Procyonidae. Most of these species live in temperate and tropical areas of the western hemisphere. Typically, their diets are omnivorous (Olingo, Raccoon and Ringtail), insectivorous (Coatis), and frugivorous (Kinkajou). It was hypothesized that the omnivorous species that include substantial animal matter in their diet (Ringtail) would exhibit larger jaw muscles with enhanced mechanical advantage for biting and chewing. Several cranial and jaw indices were standardized and subjected to an analysis of variance to test this hypothesis. Results indicate significant correlations between the indices and preferred diets. Surprisingly, the frugivorous Kinkajou (Potos) has significantly larger jaw muscles and greater mechanical advantage at the second molars compared to the rest of the species. The insectivorous Coatis (Nasua and Nasuella) display the smallest muscles with reduced mechanical advantage. The omnivorous species Bassaricyon (Olingo), Bassariscus (Ringtail), and Procyon (Raccoon) are intermediate with medium-sized jaw muscles and biting forces at the second lower molar. (Home)
Ben Michels, Honora Ryan, Alex Breeze (Bashir Tofangsazi)
11:05 - 11:20 in Alter 211
Location, Diplomatic Relations, or Financial Supporters: Determinants of Protest Coverage in Contemporary Iran
Scholarship on protest news coverage shows that news agencies based in democratic countries are more likely to have a favorable coverage of protest movements in the Global South. The relationship between the news agency’s financial supporter(s) and the county in question, however, has not received much attention. This study focuses on protest movements in Iran during the 2019-2023 period to analyze the relationship between news agencies’ location, host countries’ national interests, and the agencies’ financial supporter(s) with coverage of anti-government protest in an undemocratic country. Iran provides an excellent case study as it has witnessed multiple protest movements in the past few years, has tense relations with many democratic nations, and is often in the spotlight for its violent handling of protests. Results show some support for the importance of the host county and its relationship with the country under protest; Russia Today offers the most negative coverage of the Iranian protests since 2019. However, there are still notable differences between news agencies based in democratic nations; Iran International, a US-based news agency funded by the Saudi Royal family is the most likely to view the protests as likely to succeed, peaceful, justified, and under violent attacks by the Iranian regime. Moreover, there are significant differences between two state-funded news agencies based in democratic countries; while the BBC has a more neutral stance toward the protests, the Voice of America is more likely to view the protests as likely to succeed, and justified in their actions. (Home)
Blake Joseph Bottesi (Dr. Marco Fatuzzo)
10:35 - 10:50 in Alter 206
Ambipolar Diffusion with a Polytropic Equation of State
Ambipolar diffusion is the mechanism believed to be responsible for the loss of magnetic support in dense molecular cloud cores. This mechanism has been studied extensively both semianalytically and numerically. We build upon this existing body of work by considering a one dimensional self-gravitating gas with a polytropic equation of state. Our results indicate that the collapse time is very sensitive to the polytropic exponent of the equation of state, with softer equations of states leading to longer collapse times. Additionally, the presence of magnetic and density fluctuations causes the ambipolar diffusion process to speed up, with the greatest effect occurring for softer equations of state. (Home)
Chantz Dalton (Dr. Justin Link)
11:50 - 12:05 in Alter 205
Simulating Physics with Quantum Computing
As we delve deeper and deeper into the fundamental processes of nature, it has become more apparent that our classical computers cannot accurately simulate physics to the degree that we need. To simulate quantum mechanical effects, we must use quantum computers. For this, we learned the workings of quantum computers and how to code for them. Then, an accurate simulation of a quantum mechanical system was simulated to compare the energies found in the simulation and the real-world findings. (Home)
Chloe Kretschmar (Dr. Martin Madar)
11:35 - 11:50 in Alter 205
Synodality: Vatican II's Gift to a Church in the Modern World
This presentation will focus on the topic of synodality. Synodality is one of the most popular topics in Catholic theology today. The phrase is relatively new for the Church and its purpose is still somewhat disputed. As it has been presented by Pope Francis, however, synodality is a path toward a new way for the Catholic Church to conduct it in the modern world, so that she may be more open and compassionate to her members and the world around it. If taken seriously, this new way of being Church may open the door to revolutionary progress for the Catholic Church and beyond. This presentation holds three parts, starting with an overview of synodality, followed by an explanation for its roots in Vatican II and tradition, concluding with how synodality can be a unifying way forward for communities like the archdiocese of Cincinnati through the recent Beacons of Light initiative. (Home)
Christopher McMahan (Dr. David Gerberry, Mr. Craig This)
10:20 - 10:35 in Alter 208
Data Analysis of Graduation and Retention Rates at Xavier University
My research project this summer was conducted in collaboration with the Office of Institutional Research at Xavier to investigate two topics: graduation and student retention. I analyzed historical data from the classes of 2014-16 to investigate graduation rates and described factors associated with the students who did and didn’t graduate and why. Another project was looking at the retention rates (i.e. the proportion of first-year students that return for the fall of their second year) of the current classes of 2020-22. Understanding this data is vital as we aim to improve the student experience here at Xavier University. (Home)
Cora Bidwell (Dr. Renea Frey)
10:05 - 10:20 in Alter 206
Teaching in the Age of AI Tools: Considerations for Xavier University's Writing Program
The recent release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT has raised multiple concerns for educators, including uncertainty about its abilities and questions on how best to respond to students potentially using AI to complete assignments. In order to address these concerns, I began my research by focusing on the current capabilities and limitations of AI programs like ChatGPT. I determined this by reading statements put out by OpenAI and other experts in the field of artificial intelligence, along with testing out the technology myself. Once I had ascertained possible uses for AI in the classroom, as well as the areas in which current programs are lacking, I pivoted my research to adapting a policy for AI that would be the most beneficial to both students and faculty in Xavier University’s Writing Program. I consulted articles from other educators, advice from organizations such as the Modern Language Association (MLA) and American Psychological Association (APA), statements from educational committees, and resource pages from other Jesuit universities to determine what approaches are being encouraged by experts and to see how other institutions of higher education are responding to AI. The results of this research led me to writing an AI policy that encouraged professors to utilize this technology, at least sparingly, in their classrooms as opposed to a complete ban. This use might include a classroom activity, or even allowing students to use AI in revising the grammar or organization of an essay, as long as that use is acknowledged and cited. These suggestions are a product of the research I conducted, which showed me that a complete ban of AI technology is not only improbable, but also a possible disadvantage to students, as future careers might prioritize job candidates with a basic understanding of AI programs. (Home)
Drew Cavallo (Dr. Daniel Dwyer)
10:35 - 10:50 in Alter 208
Maurice Merleau-Ponty: Dissolving the Divide Between Mind and World through Skillful, Embodied Engagement
Since the beginning of modern philosophy with René Descartes in the 17th century, many philosophers have worked with mediational accounts of the way the world is available to us in perception and conceptual knowledge. A mediational account is one in which we experience and know the world via an intermediary entity such as an idea or an image. In his 1641 Meditations on First Philosophy, Descartes separated the body and the world, which he considered mechanical, from the mind, where thought and imagination occurs, and only connected the two through what he called ideas and judgments in perceptual and intellectual activity. In his 1689 An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, John Locke borrows Descartes’ theory of ideas and develops it in an empiricist way by combining his account of primary and secondary qualities with an account of the mind’s capacity to acquire complex ideas from particular combinations of simple ones. In his 1781 Critique of Pure Reason, Immanuel Kant, motivated by concerns about the grounds for knowledge of a world we only receive in a series of appearances, developed his transcendental idealism where objects are constituted by a mind that structures our perception and knowledge of the world according to basic concepts called the categories.
In response to this modern epistemological problem, the contemporary phenomenological tradition offers an alternative through descriptive accounts of the intentionality of consciousness. Starting with Edmund Husserl’s Logical Investigations (1900-1901), the phenomenological theory of intentionality asserts the immediate directedness or aboutness of the mind towards its objects. The French phenomenologist Maurice Merleau-Ponty, mainly in his 1945 book The Phenomenology of Perception, works within this tradition to provide a description of the perceived world and our embodiment through his theory of motor intentionality. Motor intentionality is the way in which embodied action and perception come together so that our actions are meaningfully directed toward objects in the world. In perception, we perceive possibilities for embodied action or certain solicitations from the world that call upon us to act appropriately toward it. Action directs itself towards these possibilities in the world and it is through this that it is intentional. Through his account of how motor intentionality guides our skillful, engaged dealings with the world as embodied agents inseparable from these dealings, Merleau-Ponty overcomes the epistemological dilemma of modern philosophy by arguing for direct, unmediated access between the mind and the world. (Home)
Elexis Carrow (Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer)
10:50 - 11:05 in Alter 207
Using a Quantum Computing Algorithm to Solve a Sudoku Puzzle
Quantum computing revolutionizes various computational tasks. One of the most promising applications of quantum computing is the Grover algorithm, a quantum search algorithm known for its speedup over classical methods. This algorithm utilizes qubits and Hadamard gates to search an unsorted database. We demonstrate the usefulness of the Grover algorithm in solving a 3 x 3 Sudoku puzzle. Although simple in concept, solving Sudoku efficiently can be challenging for classical computers, especially for larger grids. Quantum computing allows the algorithm to explore multiple possibilities simultaneously, significantly reducing the search space. Consequently, quantum computing exhibits a substantial speedup compared to classical techniques. In this summer research, we explored the potential of quantum computing and the Grover algorithm's usefulness in tackling Sudoku puzzles, showcasing its ability to provide faster solutions than classical approaches for this specific combinatorial optimization problem. (Home)
Emma Simone (Dr. Justin Link)
10:20 - 10:35 in Alter 211
Getting to Know Proteins Without Talking to Them
Protein structure and function are difficult to analyze as they are too small to see with the naked eye, but their interactions with light shed some insight on their characteristics. Methods utilizing light, such as fluorescence, circular dichroism, and absorption spectroscopy provide us with an understanding of the innerworkings of proteins. Most generally, in our studies, we focused on two of the aromatic amino acids: tyrosine and tryptophan, as well as the hydrogen atom of proteins; cytochrome C. The aromaticity of tyrosine and tryptophan produce characteristic fluorescence emissions, and cytochrome C is a highly studied protein which provides basis to understanding more complex proteins. For such studies to occur, it is essential for the sample to be of the utmost purity, as any imperfections will cast their own optical responses. Purity results of another protein provided by our collaborators will be shared. (Home)
Emma Weiss, Erin Linko, Isabella Handorf, Jesse Candelario Rico, Paige Loboschefski, Addyson Thomas (Dr. Mollie McIntosh)
10:20 - 10:35 in Alter 205
Dam Dredging Impacts on Aquatic Ecosystem Health in Sharon Lake and Creek, Ohio
Dams provide many beneficial services to humans such as water storage, flood control, and recreational areas. However, dams may negatively impact the surrounding ecosystem by enabling processes such as sedimentation and eutrophication. Sedimentation occurs when reduced water flow causes benthic sediments to accumulate over time. Eutrophication occurs when nutrient accumulation leads to increased algal and plant growth followed by depletion of dissolved oxygen levels which can be detrimental to ecosystem health. Through the process of dredging, benthic sediments, nutrients, and debris are removed to improve ecosystem health. The main objective of this study is to characterize the ecosystem health using macroinvertebrate communities and microplastic distribution upstream and downstream of the dam throughout the dredging process at Sharon Lake and Creek near Cincinnati, Ohio. Upstream of the dam, macroinvertebrates were collected at three sites (one creek and two lake), and microplastics were collected at three sites (one creek and two lake). Downstream of the dam, two creek sites were sampled for macroinvertebrates and microplastics. Processing of all samples is still underway. Preliminary results indicate high spatial and temporal variability among the macroinvertebrate communities at these sites. Site specific habitat and hydrology may be playing a role. Data from this study will inform park and project managers insight into dredging impacts and restoration efforts. (Home)
Emma Welsh, Felicity Kelsch (Dr. Kathryn Morris)
10:35 - 10:50 in Alter 207
Tardigrade Chemotaxis
Tardigrades are often thought to be lumbering organisms that are not capable of seeking out nutrients or demonstrating chemotaxis, the movement of an organism in response to a particular substance. We suspected that tardigrades possessed the ability to recognize foods and poisons and to move up or down concentration gradients appropriately. Two assays were constructed to understand tardigrade chemotaxis: a tracking assay and preference assay. Under the tracking methodology, testing arenas were constructed that established a concentration gradient of variable substances. Tardigrade movement was filmed and digitized to quantify patterns. We tested multiple expected attractants and repellents. Patterns were inconsistent, but trends suggest that tardigrades can sense and respond to chemical signals in their environments. Movement away from repellents was more pronounced than movement toward attractants. Under the preference assay, tardigrades were placed in four-quadrant arena divided into control and test zones. Chemotaxis is to be analyzed based on tardigrade placement after time; we have no results thus far in this assay. We are continuing to optimize our arena design in ongoing research, and eventually plan to monitor chemotaxis in situ in more realistic environments. (Home)
Erin Linko, Emma Weiss, Jesse Candelario Rico, Isabella Handorf (Dr. Mollie McIntosh)
11:20 - 11:35 in Alter 206
Long-Term Assessment of Macroinvertebrate Communities and Habitat Quality Within the Mill Creek Watershed; Cincinnati, Ohio
The Mill Creek Watershed is a network of urban streams that flows through the greater Cincinnati, Ohio region. A variety of anthropogenic factors such as Cincinnati’s combined sewage overflows (CSOs), habitat destruction, industrialization, and population growth, have historically and continuously impacted the water quality of the Mill Creek Watershed. Through an ongoing biomonitoring project, Xavier University has been studying nine stream sites along the mainstem Mill Creek and three tributaries since 2014. The ecological health of this watershed has been tracked over time using multiple parameters (aquatic macroinvertebrate, habitat assessments, fecal coliform). The main objective of this research project is to assess the macroinvertebrate community and habitat quality of the Mill Creek Watershed in summer 2023. At each site, a standardized D-frame net and Surber sampler was used to collect quantitative macroinvertebrate samples from benthic riffle habitats (n=3). A single composite macroinvertebrate sample was also collected at each site via a timed search (t=30min) from all sub-habitats (riffles, runs, etc.) within the 35m sample reach. Stream habitat was surveyed at each site using the Ohio Qualitative Habitat Evaluative Index. Preliminary results of composite samples from summer 2023 suggest taxa and habitat variability within each tributary as well as within the watershed when compared to previous study years. Continued sample processing and data analyses will inform managers on temporal and spatial variations within the watershed over time including potential benefits from ongoing restoration efforts throughout the watershed. (Home)
Ian Cheyne (Dr. Jonathan Morris)
11:50 - 12:05 in Alter 211
Formula 1 Car Design and Aerodynamics
Within a race car there are multiple components which are interesting in their own right but they must work correctly together to make the whole car succeed. Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motor racing where designs are pushed to the limits and groundbreaking developments are made. One aspect of the design is the aerodynamics which relates vehicle shape and the forces that the vehicle experiences. Engineers are able to modify shape of various key components such as a wing that sits at the front of the vehicle and a wing at the back. In this project the wing has been designed using AutoDesk Maya and the aerodynamics studied using Autodesk CFD. The results allow us to improve upon a basic design. (Home)
Imani Joshi (Dr. Jennifer Robbins)
10:50 - 11:05 in Alter 205
A Progressive Model of Emphysema with Porcine Pancreatic Elastase
Emphysema progression will often lead to end-stage lung diseases, so it is necessary to create efficient models of the disease in animals. We attempted to create a titratable model of emphysema injury in which there is lung tissue regeneration and progressive injury. Mice were tracheally given PBS, 0.5, 2, or 4 units of PPE and monitored for either 21 or 84 days. There were no significant differences in mouse weight, but there was an increase in total lung volume and decrease in alveolar surface area with injury and time. There was no evidence of alveoli repair, and airspace destruction was continuous. (Home)
Jill Calzini, Alaina Francel (Dr. Diane Ceo DiFrancesco)
10:05 - 10:20 in Alter 205
The Impact of Virtual Exchange on the Development of Global Citizenship
Global Citizenship, a multifaceted idea that encompasses social responsibility, global competence, and global civic engagement, constitutes the fundamental objective of developing integral members of society in today’s institutions of higher education (Morais & Ogden, 2010). The notion that all people work together to form a global community is not a novel idea, as the promotion of global consciousness and global values of sustaining our common home through economic, environmental, social, and political means is a common educational mission among universities. According to the United Nations, “Universities have a responsibility to promote global citizenship by teaching their students that they are members of a large global community and can use their skills and education to contribute to that community" (United Nations, n.d.). Nevertheless, this continues to be an important challenge for universities to design intercultural programs and activities that foster tolerance, inclusion, and respect for human rights, the environment, and peaceful coexistence. Through intercultural telecollaborative interactions between students of different countries and cultures studying distinct languages, research has documented improvements beyond the initial goal of increasing fluency and linguistic competence (Baroni, 2019). The Virtual Dual Immersion Program (VDIP) is a program established in 2006 by educators in both the U.S. and Latin American Jesuit Universities focusing on the implementation of Virtual Exchange sessions for their students (Ceo-DiFrancesco, et al., 2023). This investigation aims to examine the impact of participation in telecollaborative interactions through the Virtual Dual Immersion Jesuit University Network on the development of global citizenship competencies of university students at Jesuit universities in the United States and Latin America. The results can shed light on internationalization at home strategies integrated in curricula to increase inclusivity in global learning. (Home)
Justin Malone (Dr. Mack Mariani)
11:20 - 11:35 in Alter 208
The Aftermath of Nolan v. Rhodes: Exploring Ohio’s Role in the State Legislative “Reapportionment Revolution”
Prior to the mid-1960s, malapportionment in state legislatures throughout the country created profound conflicts in the political representation of rural and urban voters. Although state constitutional frameworks existed which required population-based representation in their legislatures, most of these bodies either factored in geographical areas or neglected to redraw legislative district boundaries. These notions were apparent in Ohio, as the Hanna Amendment to the Ohio Constitution granted every county one representative in the Ohio House of Representatives regardless of population. The Hanna Amendment led to the legislature overrepresenting rural and white interests, and not reflecting much of the growth in urban and suburban populations that occurred. In response to these observations, public relations worker and political activist James D. Nolan filed a civil action lawsuit against then-Governor James A. Rhodes to have the amendment voided on the grounds that it violated the Equal Protection Clause, which he won on appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1964. This paper argues that the implementation of the Court’s decision in Nolan v. Rhodes, which reflected other landmark decisions that found malapportioned districts unconstitutional, had an extensive impact on state politics in Ohio. Specifically, the implementation of remedial legislative districts caused for an increase in the number of Black and urban representatives, and equalized benefits towards urban populations. (Home)
Katie Sanchez (Dr. Julia O’Hara)
11:35 - 11:50 in Alter 211
Mexican Printmaking and International Antifascism: El Taller de Gráfica Popular
In the years during and following the Mexican Revolution, a strong subculture of antifascist printmaking was fostered. El Taller de Gráfica Popular (which translates to “The People’s Graphic Workshop”), founded in Mexico in 1937, grew out of this tradition. The TGP brought together printmaking artists united around a common anti-fascist ideology. The prints created by TGP artists express themes that have endured through Mexican history, such as resistance to imperialism and the need for agrarian reform. However, the perspective of the TGP was not limited to issues within Mexico’s borders. Instead, artists engaged political issues from a global perspective, expressing the importance of anti-fascism not only in Mexico, but in nations across the globe. An early resistance to Nazism, for example, demonstrates the TGP’s early concerns about global fascism in the mid-twentieth century. In fact, several of the TGP’s dozens of members came from other parts of the world, particularly the United States, in order to collaborate with the TGP’s Mexican founders. This international membership adds nuance to TGP prints, making connections between the specific struggles that Mexicans faced with those of mistreated people around the globe. While the struggles peasants in Mexico faced during this time were unique, they could find common ground with the struggles Native Americans and African Americans faced in the United States. TGP artists identified global trends in unique ways, producing strong political statements as well as art. (Home)
Kylie Lawson, Evelyn Kuhns, Zach Hilvano (Dr. Hanna Wetzel, Dr. Ann Ray, Dr. Wilber Escorcia)
11:05 - 11:20 in Alter 206
Insect Mitochondrial Health as a Metric for Cellular Aging
The purpose of this investigation is to link the mitochondrial health of various insects to metrics of cellular aging through a staining approach (Jc-1) that can be qualitatively and quantitatively assessed via fluorescence microscopy. The Jc-1 stain works via oxidative phosphorylation and fluoresces either as green or red depending on functionality of mitochondrial membrane potential. Green denotes dead or unhealthy mitochondria, whereas red denotes healthy, working mitochondria. Additionally, Jc-1 binding to mitochondrial membranes allows researchers to examine organelle structural integrity. Excess fusion, elongation, or fragmentation of whole mitochondria are associated with metabolic deregulation and increased ROS damage. These assaults, if left unresolved, contribute to disrupted cellular function and consequently premature aging. In this investigation DAPI was also used to stain nuclei and identify individual cells. Jc-1 was adapted for use in dissected tissue samples and sonication-dispersed cells. Fluorescent microscopy techniques were used to analyze the tissue cross section. Initial imaging was carried out using milkweed bugs, Oncopeltus fasciatus. In the future, we intend to grow Beet Armyworms (Spodoptera exigua). The primary intent of our efforts is to develop a way to measure mitochondrial health in field samples that allow us to infer insect aging. Differences in aging profiles can be used as a metric to screen compounds or physical disruptors that promote senescence and functional decline. The relevance of our findings centers on the need to develop targeted biological controls, such as accelerated aging, against pests that increase and protect farming ecological sustainability. (Home)
Lizzy Roeding (Dr. Mack Mariani)
10:05 - 10:20 in Alter 211
Cincinnati City Council - Summer 2023 Research Abstract
From 1925 to 1955, Cincinnati City Council was elected through a single-transferable voting method, a form of proportional representation. Since 1955, the system has been changed to an at-large voting district, with the top nine vote-getters elected to the council. Since 2013, council members have been elected to 4-year terms, with the mayor being elected in a separate race. We dug deeper into analyzing information about the winning candidates from 1925 until now. We mainly focused on the councilperson’s neighborhood of residence. Cincinnati is made up of 52 neighborhoods and only 9 seats on the council, leaving accurate representation of all neighborhoods in question. This representation of the city at large becomes even smaller when most council people are from the same popular neighborhoods, including Hyde Park, Avondale, and Mount Lookout. From there, we looked into what the effects would be if Cincinnati switched to election by district rather than at large. We also devoted attention to the long-term effects of this on representation for various economic, racial, gender, and cultural backgrounds. It would have been interesting to see more updated research on this topic since most of what we found occurred between 1978-2008. (Home)
Maggie Shears, Malani Patel, Sarah Ranke, Dahlia Seibert, Cailie Sitawi (Dr. Ann Ray, Dr. Emily Franzen)
11:05 - 11:20 in Alter 207
Optimizing Traps to Increase Catch Efficacy in Invasive Forest Pests
Invasive forest insects pose substantial threats to both managed and natural forests throughout North America. A major challenge in combating invasive insects is lack of effective traps to detect populations during early days of establishment, when it is still possible to control or eliminate the pest. We conducted three trapping assays to assess the effects of trap treatments on capture of forest insects. We tested the preference of spotted lanternfly to trunk traps affixed to different tree species and fitted with an attractant lure.
We tested the preference of buprestid to different pheromone lures fixed on funnel traps. We tested the preference of cerambycid to different lures on understory traps. (Home)
Nathan Beard, Beth Howard, Spencer de Tenley (Dr. Eric Bucher, Dr. Esmeralda Nastase)
11:35 - 11:50 in Alter 208
Triangles in Circulant Graphs
A circulant graph, Cn(a1,a2,…,ak), is a graph of n vertices in which the vertices are laid out circularly, and a1, a2,…, ak are the edge lengths. In this research, we focused on studying the cycle structures within Cn(a1,a2,…,ak). Our goal was to find all of the cycles and their types in Cn(a1,a2,…,ak). In this talk, we highlight our findings, as well as the methods used to obtain said findings. (Home)
Nathaniel King, Connor Slattery (Dr. Adam Bange, Dr. Hanna Weztel)
11:20 - 11:35 in Alter 211
A Reversed-Phase HPLC Method for Determination of Creatinine in C. elegans Supernatant
Creatinine is a waste product generated by the breakdown of creatine phosphate in muscles, and its levels are a reliable indicator of kidney function and overall metabolism. Caenorhabditis elegans was selected as a model organism to study metabolism, using creatinine as a biomarker. To quantify creatinine in supernatant samples from C. elegans, a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method is developed. This method utilizes a pre-column derivatization technique for creatinine, using ethyl chloroformate (ECF) as a derivatizing agent to synthesize N-ethyloxycarbonyl-creatinine, a reagent that is more hydrophobic than creatinine. This enhanced hydrophobicity leads to enhanced retention and quantification of creatinine on a C18 stationary phase. The UHPLC UltiMate 3000 instrument consists of unique parameters that are based on the derivatization of creatinine for detection at the proximal wavelength of 242nm. Considering the parameters, the samples yielded a consistent retention time at 3.1 minutes indicating the presence of creatinine derivative. Peak quantification of derivatized samples is still in progress for consistent results. (Home)
Nathaniel King, Connor Slattery, Shayne Skrtic, Emma Simone, Rebecca Lane (Dr. Stephen Mills, Dr. Hanna Wetzel, Dr. Wilber Escorcia)
10:20 - 10:35 in Alter 206
Impact of Cancer-Associated Mutations on the Ligand Energetics and Stability of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 Proteins: Insights from Protein Modeling and Docking Analysis
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) is a family of enzymes, playing a critical role in the metabolism of various substrates, including many types of drugs. Through the Catalogue of Somatic Mutation in Cancer (COSMIC) database, a list of cancer-associated mutations is obtained for CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 proteins. FoldIt Standalone and UCSF Chimera software is utilized to quantify how these cancer-associated mutations alter final minimized energy and ligand docking energy of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 proteins after folding. UCSF Chimera software is used to visualize mutations with statistically significant changes in docking energy. In CYP2D6 proteins, an ANOVA statistical test is performed and the mutations R101H, T309I, and L213P are found to significantly impact ligand docking energy (p<.0001). Inconsistent docking energy quantification is found for CYP3A4 proteins. For energy minimization, preliminary data suggests that missense mutations are associated with enhanced stability in minimized structures of CYP2D6 proteins. Preliminary data also suggests that missense mutations in CYP3A4 proteins may be associated with either enhanced or diminished stability in minimized structures of CYP3A4, depending on the mutation. It is important to note that these conclusions are based on data generated by protein modeling softwares. (Home)
Nijah Simmons, Kylie Lawson, Evelyn Kuhns, Mia Rose (Dr. Escorcia, Dr. Wetzel)
11:05 - 11:20 in Alter 208
The Effect of Early Ketamine Exposure Induced Locomotive and Physiological Behaviors in Caenorhabditis elegans
Caenorhabditis elegans, C. elegans, are a type of nematode that has been proven to be an accurate model organism in the study of drug induced behaviors. Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that blocks the main excitatory pathway in the CNS through the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor. It has been shown that ketamine regulates calcium ion concertation which in return have diverse effects on muscles and other tissues. Ketamine therefore has direct effects on locomotion in mammals. However, many mechanisms underlying the effects of ketamine remain unknown. For example, its long-term alleviation treatment resistant depression works through an unknown mechanism, leading to a specific interest in the effects early ketamine exposure on physiology and behavior later in life. C. elegans are an excellent model for elucidating these gaps in the literature given gene sequence homology with humans, short life span, and quantifiable behaviors. We therefore studied the effect of early life ketamine exposure on locomotive and feeding behavior later in life. To examine this question two assays were utilized, pharyngeal pumping and locomotion. These two assays give insight to neuronal function as pumping and locomotion are heavily governed by higher neuron function in C.elegans. Pharyngeal pumping assay is the worm's mechanism of feeding that is quantified by counting one full contraction of the worm's pharynx in 15 second intervals for 17 worms per plate after age-matched worms have been washed off from previous growing plates and cleaned of E.coli. The locomotion assay categorizes and quantifies the types and frequency of the worms' movements within 15 second intervals for 17 worms per plate after the worms have been washed off from previous growing plates and cleaned of E.coli Ketamine exposed animals displayed an average feeding rate of 236 pumps per minute (ppm) with an average of 27 body bends per minute. Furthermore, control animals that were treated with M9 displayed an average feeding rate of 249 ppm with an average 23 body bends per minute. It appears that ketamine reduced the eeding rate while increasing locomotion in ketamine exposed animals from preliminary data collected this summer. However, more statistics are to be applied to examine if ketamine exposed C.elegans revealed any significance compared to control animals. Overall, by examining this question it can aid in the understanding of the effects of ketamine’s lasting and short-term effects on human health. (Home)
Olivia (Liv) O’Reilly (Dr. Haider Raad)
10:20 - 10:35 in Alter 207
Detecting Blood Clots through Wearable Devices and IoT
Research began by studying Dr. Raad’s book on wearable technologies and IoTs. The book discusses optical heart rate monitors, which use red light sensors to determine the user’s heart rate. This led to us researching the possibility of a device that can monitor for blood clots.
We began researching the anatomical makeup, types, and common locations of blood clots while still working with circuit systems and IoT models. Our official start to the development of a new wearable began with a literature review of current methods and technologies (including patented wearables) that are used to detect blood clots. From there we worked more in depth with IoTs which would be the basis for our wearable. An important safety aspect of our research began around this stage as well when we started researching specific absorption rates (SARs) and their legal limits in the United States.
We started looking into more unique detection methods for blood clots as well. We learned that DVTs occur most commonly in the calf after an elongated period of immobility, so we began looking into EMG systems. EMGs are used to track muscle movement so the idea was that by combing IoTs and EMG monitors the wearable user could be notified when they’ve been immobile for a dangerously long period. We also used CST Studios to build a breast tumor detection system using planar antennas. Once this technique is perfected, we will be able to alter it and apply it to DVT monitoring.
Summer research has expanded many topics in the fields of physics and engineering but it all stems back to the goal of developing a wearable DVT monitor. (Home)
Olivia Parker, Max Rothkopf, Daniel Drach, Jordyn Woods (Dr. Kelly Crowe)
10:05 - 10:20 in Alter 208
Comparing Sialic Acid Levels In Mouse Models Of GNE Myopathy With Gene Therapies
GNE myopathy (GNEM) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder that causes progressive muscular degeneration. It is caused by a hypomorphic mutation in the GNE gene that codes for the bifunctional enzyme that creates and maintains sialic acid levels. This disease is often characterized by a lack of sialic acid in the muscles. Due to GNEM being a disease caused by a monogenic mutation, gene therapy has been closed in on as a prospective treatment method. Recent attempts to treat GNEM have been made via gene therapy to deliver the wild type GNE gene to muscle cells and restore sialic acid levels. Using various lectin staining techniques and ImageJ analysis, we were able to detect, quantify, and compare amounts of sialic acid present in the muscle tissues of wild type mice, mice with GNEM, and mice with GNEM that were treated with gene therapy. We found that these lectins were able to show relative sialic acid levels, although they varied in effectiveness. This would lead to findings of whether the gene therapy was successful in increasing sialic acid levels in the muscle. This information could help to develop an effective treatment plan for GNEM in the future. (Home)
Patrick Kayes (Dr. Timothy White)
11:50 - 12:05 in Alter 208
The History, Evolution, and Revival of the Irish Language: How Film has Revitalized a Language
I investigated “The Quiet Girl” an Irish language film, and Foster, the Irish novella on which the film is based. More specifically, I investigated the role of the Irish language in film, and how “The Quiet Girl” as a film, and the time period in which it was based changed the course of the language in what I believe is a very positive direction towards a revival. My thesis focuses on three topics: the power of new Irish film (like “The Quiet Girl”) , the role Irish has played in day to day life in Ireland (i.e the history of the language on the island) and how people who speak the language have evolved their communities of Irish speakers in tandem. In proving this thesis, I found that mentally I have split the paper into two distinct sections in my mind as the history and evolution of the Irish language as it is spoken and viewed in Ireland in the first half, with the latter portion focused on an analysis of “The Quiet Girl” film and an explanation of why an Irish language film has garnered sparks of revival for an endangered language. (Home)
Peter Melahn (Dr. Paul O’Hara)
11:35 - 11:50 in Alter 206
Regional Identity During the Great Depression
Across the United States, reactions to the hardships of the Great Depression varied by region. In 1935, Cincinnati and other cities were engulfed in labor crises. Norwood, Ohio’s automotive industry experienced a set of strikes in 1935, while other labor disputes were occurring both in the region (in cities such as in Toledo) and outside of it (notably in the coal fields of Harlan, Kentucky). By comparing primary sources and understanding how these various events were interpreted by the press at the time, the way Cincinnati sought to define itself as a distinct place during the Depression becomes more clear. National media coverage of the crisis in Harlan was much more extensive than that of the 1935 Norwood automotive strikes. In this way, public sympathy for striking miners in Harlan was much more a reality than that for striking automotive workers in Norwood. This was underscored, also, by both the lack of outside coverage of the Norwood strikes from other nearby regions, and antagonism of the local Cincinnati press towards them. Though both laboring populations reacted similarly to the Depression in the form of striking and violence towards authority, the treatment of the two sets of events by the media diverged. This helps us understand the two regions as two distinct places situated within a broader set of events nationally. (Home)
Rebecca Lane (Dr. Stephen Mills)
10:05 - 10:20 in Alter 207
Characterization of Proteins with Unknown Function
Around 30% of proteins identified in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) remain undefined in function. The Biochemistry Authentic Scientific Inquiry Lab (BASIL) program allows for identifying the functions of these proteins through in-silico and wet-lab methods. Protocols are used in BASIL to propose a function. In-silico modules allow for comparing a protein with known structure and sequence to a protein with unknown function. Using a combination of structural and sequence comparisons, function can be proposed for some of these proteins.
Once a function is proposed for a protein, this hypothesis can be evaluated through wet-lab methods. The proteins are expressed and purified using standard methods. After obtaining the proteins, the amount and quality can be determined. Proteins 3H04 and 4DIU were expressed in E. coli and purified through chromatography. The size and purity was measured through SDS-PAGE. Kinetic experiments were used to characterize enzymatic activity. The wet-lab methods allowed for evaluating the validity of the proposed functions.
Both proteins display hydrolase activity (turning larger molecules into smaller molecules through breaking a chemical bond with water) when using pNPA (4-nitrophenyl acetate) as a substrate. While both proteins show activity when increasing pNPA substrate concentration, neither protein displays Michaelis-Menten kinetics, suggesting substrate inhibition. 4DIU comes from a thermophilic bacterium, therefore temperature dependency of this protein was also evaluated. Future experiments involve using different substrates for these proteins in an attempt to identify its native substrate. (Home)
Shayne Skrtic (Dr. Dottie Engle)
10:50 - 11:05 in Alter 208
A Study on Pseudomonas putida's Aromatic Acid Degradation/N-Demethylation Pathway and its Impact on Caffeine and Ketamine Breakdown
Pseudomonas putida has gained attention for its documented ability to degrade aromatic acids, including caffeine, through an N-Demethylation pathway. This research aimed to investigate the extent of Pseudomonas putida’s aromatic acid degradation/N-Demethylation pathway and explore its potential capability to degrade ketamine, considering the evidence of N-Demethylation involvement in ketamine breakdown.
After establishing a method to study Pseudomonas putida, our findings revealed that the particular strain we examined did not degrade caffeine, despite existing evidence suggesting its capability to do so. This unexpected outcome led to extensive troubleshooting, eventually uncovering that the strain we purchased lacked the full operon necessary for aromatic acid breakdown, which includes caffeine. This discrepancy was confirmed through a BLAST analysis of our strain. (Home)
Shea Adesso, Will Scheske (Dr. Minerva Catral)
10:50 - 11:05 in Alter 206
Block 2x2 Matrices Where Blocks Have Prescribed Digraphs
We study 2n x 2n matrices of the form C = 
where A, B are n x n matrices with real entries, I is the n x n identity matrix and O is the n x n zero matrix, using the relationship between the digraph of a matrix and its characteristic polynomial. Throughout the study we set A and B to have various known digraphs, such as stars, cycles, and paths. We then use the digraph structures of A and B to analyze the impact on the characteristic polynomial of C. Additionally, we identify forms of A and B that result in a nilpotent matrix C. (Home)
Sonia Vargas, Mac Peloquin (Dr. Hem Raj Joshi)
11:50 - 12:05 in Alter 206
COVID-19 Infectious Disease Modeling
Mathematical modeling is a powerful tool used to understand and predict complex systems, such as the spread of infectious diseases. It involves creating mathematical equations and simulations that capture the dynamics of disease transmission and its impact on populations. COVID-19 is well known as a disease that took the lives of countless people and affected the lives of all. This infectious disease that is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes mild to moderate respiratory illness and people often can recover on their own. Furthermore, clinical trials played an important role in developing the vaccine for this disease. This summer, we worked part time to further our work from last summer involving modeling clinical trials for COVID-19. We also worked on putting the information we learned into an organized research paper. This process involved further research on informational articles, as well as thought on how the different elements in the disease affected each sub-group. Our work is still ongoing, and we hope to dive deeper into the role children play in the COVID-19 clinical trial process. (Home)
Soup Dempsey (Dr. O'Neil Van Horn )
11:35 - 11:50 in Alter 207
Transient Theology: Forming a Constructive Theology for Trans+ Christians
Drawing on the disciplines of process philosophy, queer theory, Christian theology, and the lived experiences of trans+ Christians, this project aims to serve as the foundations for a constructive theology which will serve transgender Christians who are especially struggling with reconciling their faith lives and gender identities within the current socio-political climate. Given the ways non-cisgender identities and expressions have been understood as not only ‘abnormal’ but supposedly immoral in many Christian spheres, it is the goal of this research to explore how gender and gender transition are processes through which humankind is able to engage with the unique creative potential that comes with being made in the image and likeness of God. This research points to the work of thinkers like Alfred North Whitehead and Judith Butler to suggest that gender is not something one ‘is,’ but rather something that one ‘does,’ and that exploring one’s gender is an inherently entangled and social process. In the hopes of making the results of this research accessible to as many trans+ Christians as possible, this research will be compiled into a zine — a small-circulation, self-published magazine — that will feature artwork submitted by transgender Christians, thereby uplifting their lived experiences as a guide for others. (Home)
Waleed Abdul Majid (Dr. Timothy Brownlee)
10:35 - 10:50 in Alter 211
Bridge to the Superman: Self Actualization Amid Social Pathology
This presentation deals with the relationship between self-actualization and social pathology from a Nietzschean standpoint. It begins with defending the views of Contemporary German critical theorist Axel Honneth, who thinks we as political beings require an additional category for social critique aside from the binary of injustice and justice. He also affirms that social pathologies are conditions that impede self-actualization as the realization of ethical aims and goals. However, this stance alone prevents one from knowing an in-depth understanding of the relationship between social pathology and self-actualization as it relates to the primary driver of all injustice: domination. With Nietzsche as my guide, I will elaborate on the need to not only find alternatives to but also forgo normative conceptions of justice and injustice. I'll argue that social pathologies are conditions that promote domination and impede self-actualization as a way to become more than human and transcend standard notions of morality and justice. And I will conclude that Honneth’s conception of social pathology is a correct model for understanding the problems of society and that the Superman arises from a society in which the individual does not internalize domination as a standard but rather transcends its limiting language of violence, weaknesses, oppression, and subservience. (Home)
Zachary Hilvano, Hunter Cann (Dr. Supaporn Kradtap Hartwell)
10:35 - 10:50 in Alter 205
Downscaling Paper Chromatography Chemical Separation
Paper chromatography is a common chemical separation technique used to determine the composition of samples or testing for purity of a substance. While the low cost and simplicity are beneficial, paper chromatography has two main limitations; consumption of mobile phase in tens of milliliter range and inconvenience for quantitative analysis. In addition, data analysis for retention factor (Rf) values usually has to be done soon after completion of the chemical separation, before the components decompose or their colors fade away. The objective of this research is to explore ways to overcome these limitations. The alternative design and set up of the paper stationary phase in the form of radial serpentine arms laying horizontally aims to reduce the consumption of mobile phase to microliter level. The use of digital image analysis to measure color intensity of the separated components has the potential to extend the application for quantitative analysis. In addition, the image taken by a camera or a scanner can be kept for data analysis at a later time or for second opinion. Various ways of making the design, e.g. laser printing, wax stamping, and laser cutting, were tested. Several methods for sample and mobile phase introduction were investigated for the best precision and separation performance. Image analysis using the RGB values to estimate concentration of chemical components was demonstrated. Separation of food coloring was conducted to prove the concept of the design and the use of the mathematical equation of a catenary wave to estimate the Rf values. (Home)